A record opening three days of entries for the Pan Pacific Masters Games has been attained with 1,500 participants signing up since registrations went online at 9am on Wednesday.
More than 16,000 participants from over 40 countries are expected to converge on the Gold Coast to compete in the world’s biggest and best biennial masters games to be held 6 – 15 November next year.
Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the event’s 12th edition is shaping up to be a record breaker, not only for the biennial event but also for Queensland.
“This event delivers a huge return for businesses and supports local jobs – that’s why we’re so keen to continue to grow the Pan Pacific Masters Games in the future,” Ms Jones said.
“The games pumped a record $23 million into the economy and generated in the vicinity of 100,000 visitor nights. With even more competitors in 2020, it will be great to see those numbers grow.
“The buzz on the Gold Coast since 2018 is still there and it will definitely add to the atmosphere over the 10 days of sport and entertainment next November.”
The Gold Coast’s famous celebration of masters sport will showcase competition in more than 40 individual and team sports at some of the best sporting facilities on the planet, including five Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games venues.
Events Management Queensland Chairman Paul Donovan said the event has grown from strength to strength since its inception.
Participants compete in their age group with no qualifying standards or times to enter. The only criterion for entry is a minimum age for each sport, which for the majority is 30 years of age, ensuring the sport is played fairly, competitively and in tremendous spirit.
A jam-packed live nightly entertainment program held at the Games Village during the event provides participants the opportunity to celebrate achievements, socialise with teammates, friends and family and enjoy the camaraderie for which the event is renowned.
Events Management Queensland CEO Cameron Hart said it’s the combination of a number of elements which generates excitement for this event.
“Playing your favourite sport at world-class venues in Australia’s favourite holiday playground, creating memories with friends and enjoying live nightly entertainment together is a recipe for a wonderful 10 days on the Gold Coast,” Mr Hart said.
Entries are open at mastersgames.com.au
